Dresden Travel Guide

Dresden has a sombre reputation, known primarily for the
controversial World War II bombing that killed 25,000 people and
destroyed 75 percent of the city centre. This tragic past is still
deeply felt in the city, with annual memorials and commemorations;
however, Dresden is now largely restored to its former
splendour.

Dresden dates back to the early 13th century, and some buildings
date back hundreds of years, including the rebuilt Frauenkirche,
the Swinger Palace, the SemperOper, and the Fürstenzug.
Excellent museums in the city are dedicated to art, local culture,
the military, natural history, anthropology, and even hygiene.

A lively city with a strong arts and culture scene, Dresden has
an energetic nightlife and a number of music, film, and cultural
festivals throughout the year. These include the Colourful Republic
Neustad, the Dixieland Festival, Filmnächte, and the festive
Christmas markets held in the streets over December. However, there
is a party to be found almost any night in Dresden, with many clubs
and bars concentrated in Neustadt and Weiße Gasse, and some
excellent restaurants around the Frauenkirche.

Visitors longing for an active holiday will find plenty to do in
Dresden. Rollerblading in the Großer Garten is a popular
pastime, as is rowing in the small boats on the Carolasee. Saxon
Switzerland, located upstream along the Elbe River, is a national
park perfect for hiking and rock-climbing. Dresden is also home to
the oldest zoo in Germany.

Dresden is situated about two hours from Prague, and within easy
distance of some of Germany's top attractions, including the
Königstein Fortress, the Saxon Ore Mountains, Pillnitz,
Meissen, and Leipzig.

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